He touched the lives of millions

Finding the right words to pay tribute to someone as extraordinary as Mr Ratan Tata is no easy task. He was a man whose impact transcended business and industry, touching the lives of millions with his humility, selflessness and grace. It’s rare to encounter a leader of his stature who embodied such modesty, despite his immense achievements. I had the good fortune of meeting Mr Tata on several occasions, and each time, I was struck by his genuine warmth and the encouragement he offered, particularly to younger professionals. He made everyone feel seen, heard and valued — a rare quality for someone of his standing. His ability to remain understated, no matter the situation, is something I have come to admire deeply and strive to emulate.

For me, and for countless others, Mr Tata represented a unique combination of empathy, generosity, and humility. One moment that stands out is when we discussed the future of Indian hospitality at an industry gathering. What struck me was how he didn’t focus solely on the business aspects; instead, he posed a simple but profound question — how could our work improve the lives of the people within our teams and the communities we serve? His perspective extended far beyond numbers and growth; it was about making a meaningful impact, ensuring that success didn’t just translate into financial gain but also into positive change for those around us. That question has stayed with me ever since, resonating as a reminder of the true purpose behind our efforts in this industry.

As we now bid farewell to Mr Tata, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the many lessons he imparted — both directly and indirectly. His legacy is not just one of business acumen or industry milestones, but of compassion, vision, and a deep understanding of humanity. Mr Tata’s life and work will continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals, reminding us all that the most enduring impact comes from serving others with humility and a genuine sense of purpose. It is this legacy, more than anything else, that we will carry forward, and I feel privileged to have witnessed even a small part of it.